Newfoundland And Labrador Updates Application Process For Immigration

Newfoundland and Labrador has changed how it handles immigration applications. Foreign nationals can no longer apply directly for permanent residency through the province’s programs. Some applications already in progress will also not be processed.

Starting February 19, 2025, the province has introduced an online Expression of Interest (EOI) system for its immigration programs. This change applies to both the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

How the New EOI System Works

Under the new system, foreign nationals must first submit an Expression of Interest online. This is a short form where applicants provide details such as:

• Their occupation
• Level of education
• Language skills
• Commitment to living in Newfoundland and Labrador

The province will then review these EOIs and invite selected candidates to apply for nomination or endorsement. Without this invitation, foreign nationals cannot submit a full application.

Impact on Existing Applications

For applicants who had already submitted their documents before the EOI system launch, the province will review them individually. Some applications will be allowed to move forward, while others will be placed back into the EOI pool. The government will contact applicants directly about their status.

Processing Times and Delays

With this change, processing times for new applications are expected to take longer. According to the PNP, some applications may take three months or more to be assessed. Officials say the new system will allow them to focus on candidates who meet the province’s needs, especially in areas like healthcare and education, where labor shortages are common.

Immigration Pathways and Federal Processing

It’s important to note that applications for permanent residency through the AIP are handled by the federal government. However, applications through the PNP first require a nomination from the province. After receiving a nomination, candidates must then apply to the federal government for permanent residency.

If a candidate applies through an Express Entry-aligned stream, they must maintain an active Express Entry profile and wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the federal government before submitting a full PR application.

Many Canadian provinces use the EOI system for immigration streams that do not require a job offer. However, Newfoundland and Labrador is different. Four out of its six immigration streams, including AIP, require job offers.

Newfoundland and Labrador is not the only province making changes. In September 2024, Alberta introduced a similar EOI intake system for worker immigration streams.

Recent Immigration Changes in Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador has made multiple changes to its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) over the last year.

Previously, the province accepted applications on a first-come, first-served basis. But in late 2024, a surge in applications and limited immigration spaces led to a priority-based selection process. Now, priority is given to applicants who match the province’s job market needs.

In January 2025, the province also paused the processing of Job Vacancy Assessments and AIP Designations for employers. This pause remains in effect as the province reviews its immigration strategy.

Despite these changes, the province still faces limited capacity for accepting new immigrants.

Negotiations with the Federal Government

In 2025, the federal government cut Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial nomination allocations by half. In response, the province successfully negotiated for an extra 1,000 economic immigration spots. Additionally, 290 humanitarian immigrants will be accepted over the next two years.

This brings the province’s total nomination allocation to 2,525 spots for 2025. However, officials say this number is not enough to meet the province’s demand. The government continues to push for more economic immigration spaces.